How Do You Spell DOWN SYNDROME?

Pronunciation: [dˌa͡ʊn sˈɪndɹə͡ʊm] (IPA)

The condition previously known as "Down's Syndrome", is now commonly spelled as "Down syndrome" in English. This is because the possessive apostrophe historically suggested that the condition belonged to John Langdon Down, the doctor who first described it in 1866. Nowadays, the possessive form is no longer used to avoid labelling individuals with the condition. The correct pronunciation of the word is [daʊn sɪndrəʊm] in IPA. The word "syndrome" comes from the Greek "syn-" meaning "together with" and "dromos" meaning "running".

DOWN SYNDROME Meaning and Definition

1. Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. Also known as trisomy 21, it is characterized by a distinct set of physical features, intellectual disabilities, and developmental delays. In this condition, the affected individual possesses 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46. The extra genetic material disrupts normal physical and intellectual development.

   People with Down syndrome often exhibit common physical characteristics such as low muscle tone, a flat facial profile with upward slanting eyes, a small nose, and a protruding tongue. They may also have shorter stature and relatively shorter limbs compared to their peers. Additionally, individuals with Down syndrome might experience various health issues, such as congenital heart defects, hearing impairments, and a higher susceptibility to certain medical conditions.

   Cognitive abilities are usually affected in people with Down syndrome, leading to mild to moderate intellectual disabilities. Language and speech delays, as well as difficulties with fine and gross motor skills, are common. However, with early intervention, therapy, and support, individuals with Down syndrome can lead fulfilling lives and make significant progress in their cognitive, physical, and social development.

   While Down syndrome cannot be cured, various interventions can improve the quality of life for those affected. Educational programs tailored to their cognitive needs, speech and physical therapy, and specialized medical care can help individuals with Down syndrome reach their full potential and actively contribute to their communities.

Top Common Misspellings for DOWN SYNDROME *

• downsyndrome 100%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for DOWN SYNDROME

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Etymology of DOWN SYNDROME

The etymology of the term "Down syndrome" can be traced back to the British physician, John Langdon Down, who first described the condition in 1866. Initially, he called it "Mongolian idiocy" due to some facial similarities he observed between individuals with the condition and people from Mongolia. However, this term eventually fell out of use as it was considered racial and offensive.

In the early 20th century, it became more common to refer to the condition as "Down's syndrome" to honor John Langdon Down. However, over time, the possessive apostrophe was dropped, and the term became known as "Down syndrome" instead. Today, the name is globally accepted and widely used.

Similar spelling word for DOWN SYNDROME

• down's syndrome.

Plural form of DOWN SYNDROME is DOWN SYNDROMES